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Cary 306 SACD: How good at redbook playback?

Hi, I am thinking of upgrading from my Cary 303/300 player to the new 306 SACD player. The main reason is because of the digital inputs which I can use for my digital music front end. I dont have any SACD and dont intend to buy that many because I am not that into classical or jazz. I have about 5000 redbook cds.

So my question is: How good is the 306 at redbook playback? Is it better than the 303/300? My other option is to just get a DAC but if the 306 is really good at redbook playback then I can get a better cd player and an external DAC in one package.

Thanks in advacne.
128x128tboooe
8 responses Add your response
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
aggielaw:

the 306 is a GREAT player. if you like the Cary sound, this cdp could be the last one you buy for a long time. please let me know if you have any specific questions.
aggielaw
267 posts
 
Tboooe...so, what say you?!
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
Thanks everyone. I should be getting my 306 this Wed. I cant wait to compare it to my 303!
lotus1
52 posts
 
yes ...the 306 sacd is a much better redbook player than the 303/300
rackon
301 posts
 
The RB playback on the Cary 306/SACD is stunning, even better than my Cary 303/300 with NOS tubes.

How much more is really a question for your ears and (mostly) your pocketbook.
jwpstayman
399 posts
 
TBoooe - save your money and get a good pair of NOS RCA 12AU7 tubes and the Herbies Audio Hal-O tube dampers and forget about the 306. It will take the 303/300 to a whole new level of performance!
tboooe's avatar
tboooe OP
1,009 posts
 
To answer your question, I like the house sound of Cary Audio players so I want to stay with their cdp. The 306 offers digital inputs which I can use for my digital music. Since I already like the way Cary sounds I figure if I use their DAC for my digital music then I will be getting more of a good thing. I was thinking about getting an external DAC anyway so if I can get a DAC AND a great redbook cdp (better than my 303/300) with the 306 then I would prefer to do this. I hope this clarifies things.
aolmrd1241
1,039 posts
 
If sacd is not a priority why would you want to commit funds into that format,there are other good players that have ins that would fit the bill for redbook only. Just curious...
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